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WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

Students who pursue a degree in exercise science focus on the study of human movement within a biomechanical and physiological context: including aspects of anatomy, physiology, chemistry, physics, biology, nutrition and applied training principles.

The Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science Program prepares students to promote wellness and regular participation in appropriate exercise and physical activity for a diverse population of individuals.  Students are prepared to work as exercise and fitness professionals in a variety of settings.  Program graduates provide leadership, programming, and personal training in community and commercial fitness centers, YMCA and YWCA centers, hospital wellness/fitness centers, hospital cardiac rehabilitation centers, community recreation programs, corporate fitness centers, and serve as strength and conditioning coaches for athletic teams or personal training entrepreneurs.

The Exercise Science Program curriculum is based on the standards of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and standards of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

For successfully meeting established ERP criteria, the National Strength and Conditioning Association officially recognize Northern Kentucky University.
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Career Paths

An exercise science degree prepares students for jobs in the following areas:

  • Strength and conditioning
  • Clinical exercise physiology, for example, cardiac rehabilitation and pulmonary rehabilitation
  • Corporate fitness programs
  • Community recreation programs
  • Personal training
  • Hospital wellness programs
  • Human performance specialists for military, police, fire fighters

An exercise science degree serves as a pre-professional degree for several health care advanced degree programs:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Prosthetics

Program Contact Information

Dr. Jason White
BS Exercise Science Program Director

(859) 572 - 6082
whitej47@nku.edu

What Graduates Had to Say

“NKU’s Exercise Science Program helped me to have detailed and hands-on learning as a student. I loved the small class environment and was able to build strong relationships with both my peers and professors.”

- Jaylah Bailey, Doctor of Physical Therapy student, Class of ‘21

 

“The Exercise Science program at NKU is second to none by the depth of study, attention to detail, and relevance in research. With every opportunity I’ve had, every job I’ve completed, and the people in the field I have met, all are wildly impressed at the preparation your program has provided for each and every student.”

- Trevor Kraft, Clinical Research Associate, Class of ‘19

 

“NKU and the hands-on experience I had through the exercise science programs gave me the confidence and the tools to connect with the youth through exercise and wellness. Furthermore, I want to thank the faculty in the program because the knowledge I’ve learned has been very influential to me and my career.”

- Kameron Crim, Founder & CEO Work U Inc. and Health and Wellness Teacher, Class of ‘18